17 Famous “Woodenisms” by Coach John Wooden

John Wooden was a philosopher without even realizing it. His perfectly succinct and simple sayings inspired many thousands of young college basketball players at UCLA and many more individuals far and wide—many of whom never stepped foot on a basketball court to hear the words straight from his mouth. That’s how powerful his words were.

Everyone has their favorite “Woodenism,” as many fans of the humble philosopher call his motivational quotes. But former UCLA player and sportscaster Bill Walton, who credits Wooden as his greatest mentor, says he doesn’t have a favorite. He honestly loves them all. Here are 17 of John Wooden’s most famous “Woodenisms.”

1.”It’s not so important who starts the game but who finishes it.”

2.“Be more concerned with your character than your reputation, because your character is what you really are, while your reputation is merely what others think you are.”

3.“Happiness begins where selfishness ends.”

4.“Never lie, never cheat, never steal.”

5.“Failing to prepare is preparing to fail.”

6.”Failure is not fatal, but failure to change might be.”

7.”Things turn out best for the people who make the best of the way things turn out.”

8.“If you don’t have time to do it right, when will you have time to do it over?”

9.“Success comes from knowing that you did your best to become the best that you are capable of becoming.”

10.“Talent is God given. Be humble. Fame is man-given. Be grateful. Conceit is self-given. Be careful.”

11.”Ability may get you to the top, but it takes character to keep you there.”